2 Peter 3:6

Authorized King James Version

Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
δι'
G1223
Whereby
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#2
ὧν
G3739
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#3
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
τότε
G5119
that then was
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#5
κόσμος
G2889
the world
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
#6
ὕδατι
G5204
with water
water (as if rainy) literally or figuratively
#7
κατακλυσθεὶς
G2626
being overflowed
to dash (wash) down, i.e., (by implication) to deluge
#8
ἀπώλετο·
G622
perished
to destroy fully (reflexively, to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Peter, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Peter.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Peter Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection